.1804121231550.jpg)
Your water heater might not be an appliance you often worry about, but it’s one you use daily. From the moment you take your hot morning shower, your water heater is being put to good use. So to keep your water heater in tip-top shape and the hot water flowing, here are the top winter tips you’ll want to keep in mind.
Flush The Tank
Over time, sediments, and minerals build up at the bottom of your tank. If ignored or not properly drained, it can cause the bottom of your tank to rust. Rust isn’t the only issue you’ll have to worry about; an unflushed tank is a breeding ground for bacteria that can spread throughout your pipes. To avoid this, drain the tank yearly, run clean water through it and refill.
Turn Down The Thermostat
Though you might think the hotter the temperature, the better, in actuality, you are just wasting energy. You might notice a preset on your water heater’s thermostat, but if you have young kids, the preset can be hotter than needed and you’ll want to lower the temp. Decreasing the temperature is not only a great safety precaution, but it can also save you money on your energy bill too.
Insulate The Old
An older water heater and the pipes attached can run a risk of freezing. To keep the heat in where it belongs, you’ll want to be sure your pipes and tank is adequately insulated. If you are unsure how to do this, contact a professional for help.
Do Some Inspecting
Water heaters might not need maintenance as often as other home appliances do, but when you do notice an issue, you’ll want to get it fixed immediately. If you have a tank over 2-3 years of age, annual inspections will prevent any significant issues while helping you spot the little ones early on.
When you need a plumber to repair and service your home’s plumbing, contact Tri-City Appliance, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (203) 303-5700.